A Field Guide to Common Aquatic Plants of Pennsylvania

Transcription

1 A Field Guide to Common Aquatic Plants of Pennsylvania College of Agricultural Sciences

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3 CONTENTS Introduction... 2 Algae... 8 Emergent Submerged Floating Index

4 INTRODUCTION Pennsylvania s ponds and lakes support a diverse array of aquatic plant life. Although there are many more aquatic plant species in Pennsylvania than will be found in this publication, A Field Guide to Common Aquatic Plants of Pennsylvania was designed to aid you in identifying and managing the most commonly occurring aquatic plants throughout the Commonwealth. Depending on a water body s intended use, aquatic plants can be looked upon as either a beneficial part of the aquatic ecosystem or a frustrating nuisance. Certain aquatic plants provide ideal habitat for a variety of fish, other aquatic species, and migratory birds; some have beautiful flowers at certain times of the year. Yet some of these same aquatic plants can choke off boating, fishing, or swimming areas. Alternatives for managing aquatic plants include physical and mechanical control, biological control, and chemical control. A vital point to remember is that proper identification of aquatic vegetation is critical to its management. There are four categories of aquatic plants algae, emergent plants, submerged aquatic vegetation, and floating plants. Algae are primitive, simple plants without true roots, leaves, or flowers. They are found either free floating in water or attached to other plants, bottom sediments, rocks, or other solid structures. Emergent plants grow along water body edges, with only short portions of their stems and roots submerged. Submerged plants grow in deeper water and usually are attached to the pond bottom. They remain under water until flowers and seeds form out of the water. Floating plants are rooted, with much of their structure, especially leaves, floating on the surface. They can also be unattached, obtaining nutrients through small rootlets that dangle in the water. 2

5 Emergent Floating Submerged Algae 3

6 Invasive Plants A concern in Pennsylvania and throughout the United States is the influx of invasive plants. It is important to note that not all nonnative plants are invasive. Species escaping cultivation or that are accidentally introduced most often have no negative impact in their new landscape. Aquatic invasive plants are defined as: nonnative species that threaten the diversity or abundance of native species, the ecological stability of infested waters, human health and safety, or commercial, agricultural, aquacultural, or recreational activities dependent on such waters. Aquatic invasive plants within Pennsylvania interfere with water uses (drinking water, water intakes, recreation), affect the ability of our lakes and streams to support native fisheries and wildlife, lower water quality, and alter riparian conditions. Aquatic invasive plants are responsible for significant annual financial losses to the Commonwealth s economy. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Invasive Species Council Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan, October 2006 Nonnative plant species did not originate in our region; they may be invasive, meaning that they grow quickly and overtake areas where native vegetation typically grew. Some of the aquatic plants listed in this field guide are noted as invasive plants. The best way to prevent nonnative invasive species from taking over our water bodies is to prevent their introduction and transfer. Many species are transferred as hitchhikers on boats, in bilge water, and on waders, fishing tackle, and boat trailers. Proper inspection and cleaning of these items when moving from one body of water to another will help prevent the transfer of nonnative invasive species. They can also hitchhike as contaminants in aquatic plant purchases. More information on general pond maintenance and management of aquatic plants can be found in the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences publication Management of Aquatic Plants (see Information Resources at the end of this guide). 4